COOKING WITH CLORIS -- CHERRY BLONDIES

Cloris gives a new spin to Blondies in this out-of-this-world recipe. -- AP

CHERRY BLONDIES

(serves 12)

Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour + 2 tablespoons

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

2/3 cup unsalted butter + 5 tablespoons butter, softened

2 cups lightly packed brown sugar

4 eggs

2-3/4 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup white chocolate chips

8 oz. cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup granulated sugar

21 oz. can cherry pie filling

In a medium bowl mix 2 cups of flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Melt 2/3 cup butter. Add brown sugar and mix well. Cool. Add 2 eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla, blending well. Add flour mixture. Fold in white chocolate chips. Pour mixture into greased 9”x13” pan.

In large bowl beat cream cheese and remaining butter until fluffy. Add granulated sugar. Beat in remaining eggs, flour, and vanilla. Drop by spoonfuls onto blondie batter. Using a knife, cut through batter to marbleize.

Spoon cherry pie filling over top. Bake in pre-heated 350 degree oven 50-60 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool completely before serving.